Update: 2/28/2011 Updated the below attachment to increase understanding (changed Ra to R2 and also changed Rb to Ru4 x7-x3).
I recently asked about the maximum negative input voltage allowed, but never got a response. Sooooo … I did my own research. Attached is a zip with supporting files.
This presentation is based upon the absolute maximum specifications of the U4 and U5 chips, and the 0-3V requirements of the ADC. These results are based upon the V1.3A hardware schematic, however, I noticed that the V2.3 hardware schematic shows a different positive supply voltage for U5. I suspect that is a typo.
The XLS file is set up so you can change the probe voltages, and all other changes will ripple through.
I would appreciate if others would validate my Excel spreadsheet formulas and equivalent front-end circuits for any possible amendments to make the results more accurate.
Update: 2/28/2011 Updated the below attachment to increase understanding (changed Ra to R2 and also changed Rb to Ru4 x7-x3).
front end3.zip (326 KB)